Why Power Makes Us Dumber: Addressing Power Dynamics at Work

“Power makes us dumber,” says Aubrey Blanche-Sarellano, VP of Equitable Operations at Culture Amp and an advocate for building equitable workplaces. “When we gain power, our empathy goes down, our ability to read rooms goes down.” Drawing from her lived experience as a white-assumed, mixed-race, queer, and disabled leader, Aubrey unpacks how personal growth, accountability, and strategic equity initiatives—like rethinking performance reviews and redistributing organizational resources—can redefine what it means to lead with integrity.

In this episode, Aubrey joins neurobiology expert Rajkumari Neogy to explore the often-overlooked structural issues in organizations and how addressing them can empower marginalized communities. From navigating identity and trauma to advocating for the redistribution of economic resources, Aubrey shares powerful lessons on why intentionality is key to dismantling white supremacy and creating workplaces where everyone belongs.

Tune in to learn:

• Why power and privilege must be examined and challenged at work
• How to take a closer look at performance reviews and organizational systems
• Practical strategies for redistributing power and resources within your company

This thought-provoking conversation offers actionable insights and a hopeful roadmap for leaders ready to lean into the discomfort of transformative change. It’s a must-listen for anyone committed to creating organizations that reflect the diverse and vibrant world we live in.

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Then, Now & Tomorrow, an original podcast series by ibelong

Is it possible to feel safe at work? Neurobiology expert Rajkumari Neogy absolutely thinks so. Join us for conversations that will blow your mind as we explore what it takes to foster inclusive leadership and cultivate resonant cultures in the workplace.

Watch or listen on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Credits

Produced by Flowship

Creative Director: Annabel Mangold

Original Music Composer: Dario Valderrama

Rajkumari's wardrobe styling courtesy of Gene Hiller (http://www.genehiller.com)

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Meet ibelong

At ibelong, we've developed a neurochemical approach that solves for workplace exclusion and conflict. We study workplace scenarios that lead to dissatisfaction and have built a framework to understand why people are feeling undervalued, and how to change it.

Learn more at http://www.ibelong.com.

What is Then, Now & Tomorrow?

Is it possible to feel safe at work? Neurobiology expert Rajkumari Neogy absolutely thinks so. Join us for conversations that will blow your mind as we explore what it takes to foster inclusive leadership and cultivate resonant cultures in the workplace.